Former Ashby Mayor Graham Allman has shared his memories of Queen Elizabeth II having met her on a number of occasions.

Queen Elzabeth died yesterday (Thursday) at Balmoral after concerns were raised over her health.

Councillor Allman said: "It is with heartfelt sadness, as three times past Mayor and Mayoress, that we hear of the passing, in her beloved Balmoral Castle ,of HRH Queen Elizabeth 11. 

"We first met our Queen in Aberdeenshire early in our marriage in the mid 80s, and then on several occasions at Buckingham Palace and other Royal Palaces.

"Her radiant smile was always most welcoming as though we were old long lost friends. 

"Our last meeting was at the Buckingham Palace Garden Party in 2015 at which we attended by personal invitation, with our son Piers and daughter Pennelope in recognition of our families' continuing work for good causes.

"Once again HRH welcomed us, acknowledging with warmth and accord, remembering that we represented Ashby de la Zouch and North West Leicestershire. Cherished memories of a great Monarch.

"May she rest at peace and God bless the King, King Charles III. Long may he reign over us."